JUST IN: Shane Steichen Reveals Three Main Reasons for Choosing Joe Flacco Over Anthony Richardson as the Colts’ Starting QB.
In a surprising but calculated decision, Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen announced that veteran quarterback Joe Flacco would be stepping in as the team’s starting quarterback over rookie Anthony Richardson. The decision, which has generated significant discussion among fans and analysts alike, highlights Steichen’s approach to finding the right balance of experience, leadership, and strategic decision-making for the Colts’ offense. Here, we break down the three main reasons Steichen shared for making this choice.
1. Veteran Experience
At the heart of Steichen’s decision is Flacco’s wealth of experience in the NFL. The 38-year-old quarterback has over a decade and a half in the league, including a Super Bowl victory and MVP title from his time with the Baltimore Ravens. In contrast, Anthony Richardson, while a highly-touted rookie with immense potential, is still adjusting to the speed and complexity of the professional game. Steichen believes that Flacco’s familiarity with diverse defensive schemes, his composure under pressure, and his ability to quickly diagnose plays will provide the Colts with a more stable presence at quarterback.
“Joe brings a level of experience that’s hard to replicate,” Steichen explained. “In critical moments, having someone who’s been in those high-pressure situations can be invaluable to our team’s confidence and focus.” Steichen emphasized that Flacco’s past success, along with his understanding of NFL defenses, gives him an advantage as the Colts work to strengthen their offense and make a playoff push.
2. Strong Decision-Making and Play Reading
A second, essential factor in Steichen’s choice is Flacco’s well-known ability to read defenses and make quick, accurate decisions. In a game where split-second decisions often make the difference, Steichen feels that Flacco’s mature judgment will be beneficial to the Colts’ offense. Flacco’s track record of avoiding costly turnovers and finding open receivers has given him a reputation as a smart, calculated player who rarely forces plays that aren’t there.
While Richardson shows immense promise as a dual-threat quarterback, Steichen is prioritizing a methodical approach to playmaking this season. “Joe has proven time and again that he can stay calm, read the field effectively, and make choices that minimize risk,” Steichen noted. “That’s a skill set that’s critical for us right now.”
3. Leadership and Mentorship
Lastly, Steichen emphasized the impact of Flacco’s leadership both on and off the field. Flacco’s presence in the locker room provides a role model for younger players, including Richardson, who will likely benefit from learning alongside a seasoned veteran. The head coach noted that Flacco’s maturity and professional demeanor set a standard for the entire roster.
“Joe’s leadership extends beyond just his on-field skills. He’s someone our players respect and look up to,” Steichen said. “Having a strong leader under center can make all the difference in how a team rallies together.”
Although some fans were eager to see Richardson take on a starting role, Steichen’s decision underlines a commitment to consistency and growth for the Colts. By placing his trust in Flacco, Steichen hopes to leverage the veteran’s experience, decision-making, and leadership to guide the Colts through the season, while still allowing Richardson time to develop.